Eighth thoracic vertebra

Looks like

A lower-chest vertebra (T8); the inferior vena cava passes the diaphragm at about this level.

What it does

Supports the trunk, carries ribs and protects the spinal cord.

Keeping it well

Mainly a level landmark. Wedge fractures in the mid and lower thoracic spine cause the stooped back of osteoporosis.

Related conditions

• Acromegaly
• Fractures
• Fragility fracture
• Frailty & falls in older age
• Hyperparathyroidism
• Osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease)
• Osteomalacia & rickets
• Osteomyelitis (bone infection)
• Osteoporosis
• Paget's disease of bone
• Sarcoma
• Vitamin B1, C and other deficiencies
• Vitamin D deficiency